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Another nature’s marvel witnessed as a result of human absence. After nesting in lakhs at the shores of Odisha, Olive Ridley turtles were recently spotted in Goa as well. By Upasana Singh
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As humans have been isolating in-doors due to the COVID-19 outbreak, animals around the world are coming out of hiding. After Odisha, Olive Ridley turtles have emerged from their nests in Goa as well.
India’s ultimate destination for beaches and nightlife — Goa — has now been graced by Olive Ridley turtles. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant took to Twitter to post a video showing the turtles hatching from their nests on the Morjim beach after sunset. Other beaches such as Mandrem, Agonda, and Galgibagh have also been emphasised as nesting areas for turtles.
He wrote, “Amazing wonders of nature! Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings emerging out from the last nest at Morjim. Along with Morjim, Mandrem, Agonda, and Galgibagh are important beaches in Goa which attract turtles for nesting.”
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Moreover, certain areas have also been reserved by the state forest department as nesting sites, at Morjim and Mandrem in North Goa, and Agonda and Galjibag in South Goa. This has been done to protect the sea animals from any human intervention.
Olive Ridley turtles are known for coming to Indian shores, especially in Odisha, every nesting season. It has been estimated that this year as many as eight lakh turtles have come out to nest at rookeries in Rushikulya and Gahirmatha beaches. According to Odisha’s Wildlife Organisation (OWO), almost 50 per cent of the world’s population of Olive Ridley turtles comes to Odisha’s coast. It is amazing to see these sea creatures laying eggs in other parts of India as well.
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Living in the tropical and warm waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, Olive Ridley turtles have been designated as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN). Several projects worldwide seek to preserve their population. One such major project is being carried out in Chennai along the Marina coast.
As the South Asian country remains under lockdown, restrictions imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19 have led to a lack of human intrusion. This has allowed not only turtles but other creatures to come out as well. Recently, a black panther was spotted in the Patiem Beat of Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary in South Goa. At a time like this, it is wonderful to see nature healing itself.
Related: Wild Animals Are Exploring Cities During The Coronavirus Lockdown
